Former Heriot-Watt University professor charged over alleged sexual assaults

A former professor at an Edinburgh university has been charged in connection with a series of sexual and physical assaults over a 12-year period.

Kevin O’Gorman was dismissed from Heriot-Watt University, which has three campuses in Edinburgh, following complaints from staff.

The 44-year-old is alleged to have carried out assaults in Glasgow and Edinburgh dating back to 2005.

Prof O’Gorman is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on January 5.

Before his dismissal, Prof O’Gorman was a director with the school of management and languages at Heriot-Watt and had previously worked at the University of Strathclyde.

He was originally dismissed by the university following an internal investigation.

A Heriot-Watt University spokesperson previously said: “We can confirm that following formal complaints made by staff, the university has carried out an internal investigation. This has resulted in a member of university staff being dismissed by the university.

“The matter has been referred to the police and the university is cooperating fully with the police investigation.

“The university has acted promptly to respond to the complaints and has offered support to all those involved.

“The welfare of our students and staff is of paramount importance to us, and independent counselling and advice has been made available.”